JP2022033370A - Communication device and communication control method - Google Patents

Abstract

To increase the flexibility of a communication network.SOLUTION: A communication device includes a monitor unit that monitors the status of a communication network with a hierarchical structure, a role setting unit that sets roles in the hierarchical structure on the basis of the status of the communication network, and a motion control unit that controls the execution of the motion of the changed role. This technology can be applied to, for example, the communication device that performs wireless communication in the communication network.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

The present technology relates to a communication device and a communication control method, and more particularly to a communication device and a communication control method for improving the flexibility of a communication network.

Traditionally, in mesh networks, gateways collect information such as link rates and channel status from each access point and station to determine optimal station-access point associations, backhaul routing, and bandwidth allocation. It has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Further, conventionally, a network device capable of switching between the role of an access point and the role of a station by referring to the access point credential information has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-514117 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-506132

However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, switching between the roles of the access point and the station has not been studied. Further, in the invention described in Patent Document 2, the roles of the access point and the station cannot be switched during the operation of the network.

This technology was made in view of such a situation, and is intended to improve the flexibility of the communication network.

The communication device on one aspect of the present technology has been changed to a monitor unit that monitors the status of a communication network having a hierarchical structure and a role setting unit that sets a role in the hierarchical structure based on the status of the communication network. It is provided with an operation control unit that controls the execution of the operation of the above-mentioned role.

In the communication control method of one aspect of the present technology, the communication device monitors the status of the communication network having a hierarchical structure, sets the role in the hierarchical structure based on the status of the communication network, and changes the role. Controls the execution of the operation of.

In one aspect of the present technology, the status of the communication network having a hierarchical structure is monitored, the role in the hierarchical structure is set based on the status of the communication network, and the execution of the changed operation of the role is controlled. To.

It is a figure which shows the configuration example of the communication network to which this technology is applied. It is a block diagram which shows the configuration example of the communication apparatus to which this technology is applied. It is a block diagram which shows the configuration example of a wireless communication module. It is a flowchart for demonstrating communication control processing. It is a figure which shows the structure example of the Network Structure Announcement Frame. It is a flowchart for demonstrating a communication terminal role control process. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of Network Structure Independent Request Frame. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of Network Structure Connection Request Frame. It is a flowchart for demonstrating access point role control processing. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of Network Structure Connection Release Frame. It is a flowchart for demonstrating a controller role control process. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of Network Structure Independent Release Frame. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the user setting role control process. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation screen. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation screen. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation screen. It is a figure which shows the state transition diagram of a communication device. It is a figure which shows the operation sequence of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the operation sequence of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the operation sequence of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the operation sequence of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the operation sequence of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of a communication network. It is a figure which shows the configuration example of a computer.

Hereinafter, a mode for implementing the present technology will be described. The explanation will be given in the following order.
1. 1. Embodiment 2. Modification example 3. others

<< 1. Embodiment >>
<Configuration example of communication network 1>
FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of a communication network 1 to which the present technology is applied.

The communication network 1 is a communication network having a hierarchical structure. The communication network 1 includes a controller CNT1, an access point AP1 and an access point AP2, and a communication terminal STA1 to a communication terminal STA3. The communication network 1 is divided into three layers: a layer including the controller CNT1, a layer including the access point AP1 and the access point AP2, and a layer including the communication terminal STA1 to the communication terminal STA3.

The controller CNTL1 functions as, for example, an access controller or an internet gateway. The controller CNT1 is connected to an external network 2 which is an external communication network configured by, for example, the Internet, etc. via a backhaul or the like, and communicates with the external network 2. The communication between the controller CNT1 and the external network 2 may be either wired or wireless.

The access point AP1 and the access point AP2 relay between the controller CNT1 and the communication terminal STA1 to the communication terminal STA3. Communication between the access point AP1 or the access point AP2 and the controller CNT may be either wired or wireless. However, as will be described later, the access point to which this technology is applied performs wireless communication.

Therefore, the communication terminal STA1 to the communication terminal STA3 are connected to the external network 2 via the access point AP1 or the access point AP2 and the controller CNTL1, respectively. In this example, the communication terminal STA1 and the communication terminal STA3 are connected to the external network 2 via the access point AP1 and the controller CNTL1, and the communication terminal STA3 is connected to the external network 2 via the access point AP2 and the controller CNTL1. An example is shown.

The number of controllers, access points, and communication terminals in FIG. 1 is an example thereof, and can be freely changed.

Further, in the following, when distinguishing between a communication network composed of a controller, an access point, and a communication terminal (for example, communication network 1) and an external communication network to which the controller is connected (for example, external network 2). The former is called an internal network, and the latter is called an external network.
<Configuration example of communication device 11>
FIG. 2 shows a configuration example of a communication device (wireless communication device) 11 to which the present technology is applied.

For example, in the communication network 1 of FIG. 1, the communication device 11 can play any role of a controller, an access point, and a communication terminal, and the roles can be changed on the way.

The communication device 11 includes an external network connection module 21, an information input module 22, an operation control unit 23, an information output module 24, and a wireless communication module 25.

The external network connection module 21 includes, for example, a circuit having a function for connecting to an external network from an optical fiber network or other communication line via a service provider, a peripheral circuit thereof, a microcontroller, a semiconductor memory, and the like. The external network connection module 21 performs processing related to connection to the external network under the control of the operation control unit 23. For example, the external network connection module 21 realizes a function such as a communication modem for connecting to an external network when the communication device 11 operates as a controller.

The information input module 22 includes, for example, an input device such as a push button, a keyboard, and a touch panel. The information input module 22 supplies input data corresponding to a user's instruction or the like to the operation control unit 23.

The operation control unit 23 includes, for example, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, and the like. The operation control unit 23 controls each unit (module) in order to operate the communication device 11 as a controller, an access point, or a communication terminal. Further, the operation control unit 23 processes the data supplied from the external network connection module 21, the information input module 22, or the wireless communication module 25. Further, the operation control unit 23 supplies the supplied data and the data obtained as a result of the processing to the external network connection module 21, the information output module 24, or the wireless communication module 25.

The information output module 24 includes, for example, an output device including a display element such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display (OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode), and an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The information output module 24 has a function of displaying necessary information to the user based on the information supplied from the operation control unit 23. Here, the information processed by the information output module 24 includes, for example, the operating state of the communication device 11 and information obtained from an external network.

The wireless communication module 25 includes, for example, a wireless chip, a peripheral circuit, a microcontroller, a semiconductor memory, and the like. The wireless communication module 25 performs processing related to wireless communication under the control of the operation control unit 23. Details of the configuration of the wireless communication module 25 will be described later with reference to FIG.

Here, a wireless communication module equipped with a wireless communication chip, peripheral circuits, etc. will be described as an example, but this technology is applied not only to the wireless communication module but also to, for example, a wireless communication chip, a wireless communication LSI, and the like. can do. Further, in the wireless communication module, it is optional whether or not to include the antenna.

<Configuration example of wireless communication module 25)
FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of the wireless communication module 25 of FIG.

The wireless communication module 25 includes an interface unit 101, a transmission buffer 102, a transmission frame construction unit 103, a network management unit 104, a monitor unit 105, a role setting unit 106, an operation control unit 107, a control information generation unit 108, and a transmission power control unit 109. , Wireless transmission processing unit 110, antenna control unit 111, antenna element 112a, antenna element 112b, detection threshold control unit 113, wireless reception processing unit 114, control information processing unit 115, reception data construction unit 116, and reception buffer 117. Be prepared.

The interface unit 101 includes, for example, an input / output interface circuit and the like. The interface unit 101 is an interface for exchanging data with the operation control unit 23 (FIG. 2), and has a function of exchanging input data and output data in a predetermined signal format. For example, the interface unit 101 stores the transmission data supplied from the operation control unit 23 in the transmission buffer 102. Further, the interface unit 101 supplies the data supplied from the operation control unit 23 to the network management unit 104, the monitor unit 105, and the role setting unit 106, if necessary. Further, the interface unit 101 supplies the data supplied from the network management unit 104 and the role setting unit 106, and the data stored in the reception buffer 117 to the operation control unit 23, if necessary.

The transmission buffer 102 is composed of a semiconductor memory device such as a buffer memory. The transmission buffer 102 temporarily stores the transmission data supplied from the interface unit 101.

The transmission frame construction unit 103 reads out the transmission data stored in the transmission buffer 102, constructs a data frame for transmission by wireless communication, and supplies the data frame to the control information generation unit 108.

The network management unit 104 is based on the data supplied from the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101, the control information supplied from the control information processing unit 115, and the reception data stored in the reception buffer 117. Manage network information. The network information includes, for example, an internal network to which the communication device 11 belongs (hereinafter referred to as a self-network), another internal network around the communication device 11 (hereinafter referred to as a peripheral network), and an external network to which the internal network is connected. Contains information about the network. The network management unit 104 supplies network information to the monitor unit 105, the role setting unit 106, the operation control unit 107, the control information generation unit 108, and the control information processing unit 115. Further, the network management unit 104 supplies network information to the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101.

The monitor unit 105 supplies the data supplied from the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101, the network information supplied from the network management unit 104, the control information supplied from the control information processing unit 115, and the receive buffer 117. Monitor (monitor) the status of the network (internal network (self network and peripheral network) and external network) based on the stored received data. The monitor unit 105 supplies information on the network status to the role setting unit 106.

The role setting unit 106 of the internal network of the communication device 11 is based on the network status and the input data corresponding to the user's instruction supplied from the information input module 22 via the operation control unit 23 and the interface unit 101. Set the role in the hierarchical structure. That is, the role setting unit 106 selects which of the controller, the access point, and the communication terminal is to be operated. The role setting unit 106 instructs the operation control unit 107 and the operation control unit 23 (via the interface unit 101) to execute the set role, and notifies the network management unit 104 of the set role.

The operation control unit 107 controls the wireless communication module 25 so that the communication device 11 plays the role set by the role setting unit 106. For example, the motion control unit 107 instructs the control information generation unit 108 to generate and transmit various control information. Further, the operation control unit 107 instructs the transmission power control unit 109 to change the power of the transmission signal, and instructs the detection threshold value control unit 113 to change the detection threshold value of the reception signal. Further, the motion control unit 107 notifies the role setting unit 106 whether or not the role can be changed to the role set by the role setting unit 106.

The control information generation unit 108 adds header information, various parameters, and the like to the data frame based on the instructions of the operation control unit 107, network information, and the like, and supplies the data frame to the wireless transmission processing unit 110. Further, the control information generation unit 108 generates a control frame based on the instruction of the operation control unit 107, network information, and the like, and supplies the control frame to the wireless transmission processing unit 110. The control frame is a frame used for communication control with other communication devices. For example, the control frame includes a frame related to association processing, a CTS frame, an ACK frame, an RTS frame, a BAR frame, and the like. Further, the control frame includes frames of FIGS. 5, 7, 8, 10, and 12, which will be described later.

The transmission power control unit 109 controls the wireless transmission processing unit 110 under the instruction of the operation control unit 107, and controls the transmission power of the transmission signal. For example, the transmission power control unit 109 controls the transmission power so that the signal does not reach an unnecessary radio wave reach range at the time of transmission of each frame. Further, the transmission power control unit 109 notifies the detection threshold value control unit 113 of the set transmission power.

The wireless transmission processing unit 110 performs transmission processing of a transmission signal by wireless communication. For example, the wireless transmission processing unit 110 converts a frame transmitted by wireless communication into a baseband signal, processes it as an analog signal, and supplies the resulting transmission signal to the antenna control unit 111.

The antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b are connected to the antenna control unit 111. The antenna control unit 111 controls, for example, to transmit the transmission signal supplied from the wireless transmission processing unit 110 as a spatial multiplex stream via the antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b. Further, the antenna control unit 111 receives the received signal transmitted as a spatial multiplex stream by wireless communication via the antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b, and supplies the received signal to the wireless reception processing unit 114.

The detection threshold value control unit 113 sets a detection threshold value for detecting a received signal under the instruction of the operation control unit 107. For example, the detection threshold control unit 113 can detect the received signal from the controller, the access point, and the notification terminal within the transmission range of the transmission signal in response to the transmission power control by the transmission power control unit 109. A threshold value is set for the wireless reception processing unit 114.

The wireless reception processing unit 114 performs reception processing of a received signal by wireless communication. For example, when the wireless reception processing unit 114 detects a predetermined preamble signal from the received signal supplied from the antenna control unit 111 under the control of the detection threshold control unit 113, the subsequent data frame or control frame Is processed to receive. The wireless reception processing unit 114 supplies the received data frame and control frame to the control information processing unit 115.

The control information processing unit 115 analyzes the header information and the like of the received frame (data frame and control frame) to determine whether or not the frame is addressed to itself (communication device 11). When the frame is addressed to itself, the control information processing unit 115 extracts control information necessary for communication control from the frame and supplies it to the network management unit 104, the monitor unit 105, and the operation control unit 107. Further, the control information processing unit 115 supplies the data frame addressed to itself to the received data construction unit 116.

The reception data construction unit 116 extracts the data portion of the received data frame and stores it in the reception buffer 117. Further, the reception data construction unit 116 restores the reception data by concatenating the reception data transmitted by being divided into a plurality of data frames, and stores the reception data in the reception buffer 117.

The receive buffer 117 is composed of a semiconductor memory device such as a buffer memory. The reception buffer 117 temporarily stores the reception data supplied by the reception data construction unit 116.

In FIG. 3, each part constituting the wireless communication module 25 can be divided into three parts, for example, an input / output unit 151, a control unit 152, and a front end unit 153, as shown by a dotted line frame. ..

The input / output unit 151 performs processing and control regarding input transmission data and output reception data. The input / output unit 151 includes an interface unit 101, a transmission buffer 102, a transmission frame construction unit 103, a reception data construction unit 116, and a reception buffer 117.

The control unit 152 controls the wireless communication module 25, and processes and controls control frames and data frames. The control unit 152 includes a network management unit 104, a monitor unit 105, a role setting unit 106, an operation control unit 107, a control information generation unit 108, and a control information processing unit 115.

The front end unit 153 processes and controls signals such as transmission signals and reception signals. The front-end unit 153 includes a transmission power control unit 109, a radio transmission processing unit 110, an antenna control unit 111, a detection threshold control unit 113, and a radio reception processing unit 114.

<Communication control processing>
Next, the communication control process executed by the communication device 11 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

This process starts, for example, when the power of the communication device 11 is turned on, and ends when the power of the communication device 11 is turned off.

In step S1, the communication device 11 starts the operation of the communication terminal. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 sets the role of the communication device 11 in the communication terminal. The role setting unit 106 instructs the operation control unit 107 to execute the operation of the communication terminal, or instructs the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101. Further, the role setting unit 106 notifies the network management unit 104 that the communication terminal has been set.

After that, although detailed description is omitted, the communication device 11 searches for a communicable access point under the control of the operation control unit 107 and the like, and connects to the detected access point according to a predetermined communication protocol.

In step S2, the communication device 11 starts monitoring the communication status. Specifically, the network management unit 104 supplies various information transmitted from surrounding controllers, access points, and communication terminals, and from the external network connection module 21 via the operation control unit 23 and the interface unit 101. The management of the network information is started based on the various information to be performed, and the network information is appropriately supplied to the monitor unit 105, the role setting unit 106, the control information generation unit 108, and the control information processing unit 115. Further, the network management unit 104 appropriately supplies network information to the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101.

The network information includes, for example, information on the internal network and information on the external network. The information of the internal network includes, for example, the configuration of the self-network and the peripheral network, and the address information of the devices (controller, access point, and communication terminal) constituting the self-network and the internal network.

Further, the monitor unit 105 has various information transmitted from surrounding controllers, access points, and communication terminals, and various types of information supplied from the external network connection module 21 via the operation control unit 23 and the interface unit 101. Informedly, start monitoring the status of the network.

For example, the monitor unit 105 starts monitoring the status of the internal network (self-network and peripheral network). For example, the monitor unit 105 starts monitoring the load of each device constituting the internal network and the communication status between the devices. As the load of each device, for example, the transmission amount of each device, the throughput, the occupied time in the internal network, the waiting time, and the like are assumed. Further, for example, the monitor unit 105 starts monitoring the communication status between each device of the internal network. As the communication status between the devices, for example, the presence / absence of a connection between the devices, the presence / absence of a connection failure, the bandwidth, the transmission speed, the transmission amount, the throughput, and the like are assumed.

Further, the monitor unit 105 starts monitoring the access status from the internal network to the external network. For example, the monitor unit 105 starts monitoring the presence / absence of a connection between the internal network and the external network, the presence / absence of an access failure, the bandwidth, the transmission speed, the transmission amount, the delay time, and the like.

The monitor unit 105 appropriately supplies information on the network status to the role setting unit 106.

FIG. 5 shows a configuration example of the Network Structure Announcement Frame used for monitoring the network status. The Network Structure Announcement Frame is a control frame for notifying the configuration of the self-network to which the controller belongs, and is periodically broadcast from the controller. Therefore, when the communication device 11 operates as a controller, it is periodically broadcast from the communication device 11.

The Network Structure Announcement Frame includes Header, Controller Parameter Info Element, AP Counts, Network Map, and FCS.

Header includes Frame Control, Duration, Transmit Address, and Receive Address.

Frame Control indicates the format of the frame.

Duration indicates the duration of the frame.

The Transmit Address indicates the address (for example, MAC address) of the transmitting side (source) of the frame. In this frame, the address of the controller that is the source of the frame is set.

Receive Address indicates the address (for example, MAC address) of the receiving side (destination) of the frame. In this frame, the broadcast address is set.

The Controller Parameter Info Element indicates information about the controller that sent the frame. Controller Parameter Info Element includes Controller Address, Controller Identifier, Controller Capability, Transfer Capacity, ISP Info, Access Cost, Ready Bytes, and Maximum Latency.

Controller Address indicates the address of the controller (for example, MAC address).

The Controller Identifier indicates the identification information of the controller (for example, Service Set Identifier (SSID), etc.).

Controller Capability provides information about the capabilities of the controller. For example, Controller Capability indicates a compatible wireless LAN system standard, maximum transmission rate, compatible multiplex communication parameters, and the like.

Transfer Capacity indicates information about the transmission capacity of the external network. For example, Transfer Capacity indicates the monthly maximum usable capacity of the external network, the maximum transmission rate, and the like.

ISP Info provides information for the controller to connect to an Internet service provider that can be used to connect to an external network.

Access Cost provides information about connection charges for Internet service providers available to the controller. For example, Access Cost indicates a connection charge per unit time or unit data amount in the case of a pay-as-you-go system, and indicates a monthly fixed charge in the case of a flat-rate system.

Ready Bytes provide information about the external network transmission capacity currently available to the controller. For example, Ready Bytes show parameters such as how many gigabytes of data can be transmitted this month.

Maximum Latency indicates the maximum delay allowance when connecting to an external network via a controller.

AP Counts indicates the number of access points connected to the controller.

The Network Map shows information about the topology map of the self-network to which the controller belongs. Network Map includes AP Address, STA Counts, and STA Address.

AP Address indicates the address (for example, MAC address) of the access point connected to the controller.

STA Counts indicates the number of communication terminals connected to the access point indicated by AP Address.

The STA Address indicates the address (for example, MAC address) of the communication terminal connected to the access point indicated by the AP Address.

The AP Address, STA Counts, and STA Address data sets are stored in the Network Map for each access point connected to the controller. Therefore, a data set of the number of access points connected to the controller is stored in the Network Map.

An FCS (Frame Check Sequence) for error detection is added to the end of the frame.

In step S3, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the communication terminal is set. If it is determined that the communication terminal is set, the process proceeds to step S4.

In step S4, the communication device 11 executes the communication terminal role control process. By this process, the role of the communication device 11 is changed from the communication terminal to another role as needed. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

After that, the process proceeds to step S8.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3 that the communication terminal is not set, the process proceeds to step S5.

In step S5, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the access point is set. If it is determined that the access point is set, the process proceeds to step S6.

In step S6, the communication device 11 executes the AP role control process. By this process, the role of the communication device 11 is changed from the access point to another role as needed. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

After that, the process proceeds to step S8.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5 that it is not set in the AP, that is, if it is set in the controller, the process proceeds to step S7.

In step S7, the communication device 11 executes the controller role control process. By this process, the role of the communication device 11 is changed from the controller to another role as needed. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

After that, the process proceeds to step S8.

In step S8, the communication device 11 executes the user setting role control process. By this process, the role of the communication device 11 is changed according to the user setting. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

After that, the process returns to step S3, and the processes of steps S3 to S8 are repeatedly executed.

<Communication terminal role control processing>
Next, the details of the communication terminal role control process in step S4 of FIG. 4 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S51, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not an access failure to the external network has occurred based on the information from the monitor unit 105. If it is determined that no access failure to the external network has occurred, the process proceeds to step S52.

In step S52, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the load of the upper controller is high based on the information from the monitor unit 105. For example, the role setting unit 106 is higher when the load of the controller to which the communication device 11 is connected via the access point, that is, the upper controller in the latest predetermined time exceeds a predetermined upper limit value. It is determined that the load on the controller is high, and the process proceeds to step S53. The content of the load and the upper limit value, which are the determination criteria, can be arbitrarily set.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S51 that an access failure to the external network has occurred, the process of step S52 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S53.

In step S53, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the controller can be changed.

Specifically, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not it can be directly connected to the external network based on the information from the monitor unit 105. When the role setting unit 106 determines that the external network can be directly connected, the role setting unit 106 instructs the operation control unit 107 to change to the controller.

The operation control unit 107 instructs the control information generation unit 108 to request the higher-level controller that the communication device 11 becomes independent as a controller. The control information generation unit 108 generates a Network Structure Independent Request Frame and supplies it to the wireless transmission processing unit 110. The wireless transmission processing unit 110 transmits a transmission signal including a Network Structure Independent Request Frame to a higher-level controller via the antenna control unit 111, the antenna element 112a, and the antenna element 112b.

FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of the Network Structure Independent Request Frame. The Network Structure Connection Request Frame is a control frame transmitted to a higher-level controller in order to request that the communication terminal or the access point become independent as a controller.

In the Network Structure Independent Request Frame, the same Header as in the Network Structure Connection Request Frame of FIG. 5 is arranged at the head, and the FCS is arranged at the end. The Address of the communication terminal or access point of the transmission source is set in the Transmit Address of the Header, and the address of the controller of the transmission destination is set in the Receive Address.

Controller Identifier, Controller Capability, Transfer Capacity, ISP Info, Access Cost, and Ready Bytes are arranged between Header and FCS.

The Controller Identifier indicates the identification information of the upper controller.

Controller Capability indicates information about the ability of a communication terminal or access point as a controller. The content of the information is the same as the Controller Capability of the Network Structure Announcement Frame in FIG.

Transfer Capacity indicates information about the transmission capacity of the external network when the communication terminal or access point operates as a controller. The content of the information is the same as the Transfer Capacity of the Network Structure Announcement Frame of FIG.

ISP Info provides information for connecting to an Internet service provider that can be used to connect to an external network when the communication terminal or access point acts as a controller.

Access Cost indicates information about the connection fee of the Internet service provider that can be used when the communication terminal or access point operates as a controller. The content of the information is the same as the Access Cost of the Network Structure Announcement Frame in FIG.

Ready Bytes show information about the transmission capacity of the external network currently available when the communication terminal or access point operates as a controller. The content of the information is the same as the Ready Bytes of the Network Structure Announcement Frame in FIG.

On the other hand, the controller determines whether or not the communication device 11 approves the independence as the controller, and transmits a response signal including a control frame including control information indicating whether or not the approval is possible.

The wireless reception processing unit 114 receives a response signal via the antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b, and the antenna control unit 111, extracts a control frame from the response signal, and supplies the control frame to the control information processing unit 115. The control information processing unit 115 supplies the control information included in the control frame to the operation control unit 107. Based on the control information, the operation control unit 107 notifies the role setting unit 106 whether or not it is approved to become independent as a controller from the higher-level controller.

When the role setting unit 106 is approved to be independent as a controller from the higher-level controller, the role setting unit 106 determines that the controller can be changed, and the process proceeds to step S54.

In step S54, the communication device 11 starts the operation of the controller. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 notifies the network management unit 104 that the controller has been changed, and also notifies the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101. The operation control unit 23 and the operation control unit 107 start operation control as a controller.

After that, although detailed description is omitted, the communication device 11 disconnects from the access point and directly connects to the external network as a controller under the control of the operation control unit 107 or the like according to a predetermined communication protocol.

After that, the communication terminal role control process ends.

On the other hand, in step S53, if the role setting unit 106 cannot be directly connected to the external network, or if it is not approved to be independent as a controller from the higher-level controller, it is determined that the controller cannot be changed, and the process is stepped. Proceed to S55.

Further, in step S52, the role setting unit 106 determines, for example, that the load of the upper controller is not high when the load within the latest predetermined time of the upper controller is equal to or less than the predetermined upper limit value, and the process is performed in step. Proceed to S55.

In step S55, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the load on the upper access point is high based on the information from the monitor unit 105. For example, when the load of the access point to which the communication device 11 is connected, that is, the load within the latest predetermined time of the upper access point exceeds a predetermined upper limit value, the role setting unit 106 of the upper access point. It is determined that the load is high, and the process proceeds to step S56. The content of the load and the upper limit value, which are the determination criteria, can be arbitrarily set.

In step S56, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not there is an access point with a low load in the surroundings based on the information from the monitor unit 105. For example, the role setting unit 106 determines that there is no access point with a low load in the vicinity when there is no access point in the communicable range of the communication device 11 whose load within the latest predetermined time is less than the predetermined lower limit value. Then, the process proceeds to step S57. The content of the load and the lower limit value, which are the determination criteria, can be arbitrarily set.

In step S57, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the access point can be changed.

Specifically, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the indirectly connected upper controller is within the communicable range of the communication device 11 based on the information from the monitor unit 105. When the role setting unit 106 determines that the upper controller is within the communicable range of the communication device 11, the role setting unit 106 instructs the operation control unit 107 to change to the access point.

The operation control unit 107 instructs the control information generation unit 108 to request the higher-level controller to connect the communication device 11 as an access point. The control information generation unit 108 generates a Network Structure Connection Request Frame and supplies it to the wireless transmission processing unit 110. The wireless transmission processing unit 110 transmits a transmission signal including a Network Structure Connection Request Frame to a higher-level controller via the antenna control unit 111, the antenna element 112a, and the antenna element 112b.

FIG. 8 shows a configuration example of the Network Structure Connection Request Frame. The Network Structure Connection Request Frame is a control frame transmitted to a higher-level controller in order to request that the communication terminal connect as an access point.

In the Network Structure Connection Request Frame, the same Header as in the Network Structure Connection Request Frame of FIG. 5 is arranged at the head, and the FCS is arranged at the end. The Address of the communication terminal of the transmission source is set in the Transmit Address of the Header, and the address of the controller of the transmission destination is set in the Receive Address.

A Controller Identifier, Access Point Capability, Transfer Capacity, and Maximum Latency are arranged between the Header and the FCS.

The Controller Identifier indicates the identification information of the upper controller.

Access Point Capability indicates information about the ability of a communication terminal as an access point. For example, Access Point Capability indicates a compatible wireless LAN standard, a maximum transmission rate, a compatible multiplex communication parameter, and the like.

Transfer Capacity indicates information about the transmission capacity of the external network when the communication terminal operates as an access point. The content of the information is the same as the Transfer Capacity of the Network Structure Announcement Frame of FIG.

Maximum Latency indicates the maximum delay allowance when the communication terminal operates as an access point.

On the other hand, the controller determines whether or not the communication device 11 approves the connection as an access point, and transmits a response signal including a control frame including control information indicating whether or not the approval is possible.

The wireless reception processing unit 114 receives a response signal via the antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b, and the antenna control unit 111, extracts a control frame from the response signal, and supplies the control frame to the control information processing unit 115. The control information processing unit 115 supplies the control information included in the control frame to the operation control unit 107. Based on the control information, the operation control unit 107 notifies the role setting unit 106 whether or not the connection as an access point is approved by the higher-level controller.

When the role setting unit 106 approves the connection as an access point from the higher-level controller, the role setting unit 106 determines that the access point can be changed, and the process proceeds to step S58.

In step S58, the communication device 11 starts the operation of the access point. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 notifies the network management unit 104 that the access point has been changed, and also notifies the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101. The operation control unit 23 and the operation control unit 107 start operation control as an access point.

After that, although detailed description is omitted, the communication device 11 disconnects from the access point according to a predetermined communication protocol under the control of the operation control unit 107 and the like, and directly connects to the upper controller as the access point. do.

After that, the communication terminal role control process ends.

On the other hand, in step S57, the role setting unit 106 connects to the access point when the higher-level controller is not within the communicable range of the communication device 11 or when the higher-level controller does not approve the connection as an access point. It is determined that the change cannot be made, and the communication terminal role control process ends.

Further, in step S56, for example, when the role setting unit 106 has an access point in the communicable range of the communication device 11 whose load within the latest predetermined time is less than the predetermined lower limit value, the load is low in the surroundings. It is determined that there is an access point, and the process proceeds to step S59.

In step S59, the communication device 11 changes the access point to be connected. Although detailed description will be omitted, the communication device 11 disconnects from the higher-level access point according to a predetermined communication protocol under the control of the operation control unit 107 and the like, and the load detected in the process of step S56. Connect to a low access point.

After that, the communication terminal role control process ends.

On the other hand, in step S55, for example, the role setting unit 106 determines that the load of the upper access point is not high when the load within the latest predetermined time of the upper access point is equal to or less than the predetermined upper limit value. The communication terminal role control process ends.

<AP role control processing>
Next, the details of the AP role control process in step S6 of FIG. 4 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S101, it is determined whether or not an access failure to the external network has occurred, as in the process of step S51 of FIG. If it is determined that no access failure to the external network has occurred, the process proceeds to step S102.

In step S102, as in the process of step S52 of FIG. 6, it is determined whether or not the load of the upper controller is high. If it is determined that the load of the upper controller is high, the process proceeds to step S103.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S101 that an access failure to the external network has occurred, the process of step S102 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S103.

In step S103, it is determined whether or not the controller can be changed, as in the process of step S53 of FIG. If it is determined that the controller can be changed, the process proceeds to step S104.

In step S104, the operation of the controller is started in the same manner as the process of step S54 of FIG. That is, the communication device 11 starts the operation of the controller, disconnects from the controller, and directly connects to the external network.

After that, the AP role control process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that the controller cannot be changed, the process of step S104 is skipped and the AP role control process ends.

If it is determined in step S102 that the load on the upper controller is not high, the process proceeds to step S105.

In step S105, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not there is long-term data transmission based on the information from the monitor unit 105. For example, the role setting unit 106 determines that there is no long-term data transmission when a signal including a data frame is not transmitted / received from a lower communication terminal connected to the communication device 11 which is an access point for a predetermined time or longer. Then, the process proceeds to step S106. That is, when the load of the communication device 11 which is an access point is low, the process proceeds to step S106.

In step S106, as in the process of step S56 of FIG. 6, it is determined whether or not there is an access point with a low load in the surroundings. If it is determined whether or not there is an access point with a low load in the surroundings, the process proceeds to step S107.

In step S107, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the communication terminal can be changed. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 instructs the operation control unit 107 to change to the communication terminal.

The operation control unit 107 instructs the control information generation unit 108 to request the upper controller to release the role of the access point by the communication device 11. The control information generation unit 108 generates a Network Structure Connection Release Frame and supplies it to the wireless transmission processing unit 110. The wireless transmission processing unit 110 transmits a transmission signal including a Network Structure Connection Release Frame to a higher-level controller via the antenna control unit 111, the antenna element 112a, and the antenna element 112b.

FIG. 10 shows a configuration example of the Network Structure Connection Release Frame. The Network Structure Connection Release Frame is a control frame transmitted to a higher-level controller in order to request that the access point release the role of the access point and operate as a communication terminal.

In the Network Structure Connection Release Frame, the same Header as in the Network Structure Connection Request Frame of FIG. 5 is arranged at the beginning, and the FCS is arranged at the end. The Address of the access point of the source is set in the Transmit Address of the Header, and the address of the controller of the destination is set in the Receive Address.

A Controller Identifier, a New Access Point Identifier, a Transfer Capacity, and a Connection Parameter are arranged between the Header and the FCS.

The Controller Identifier indicates the identification information of the upper controller.

The New Access Point Identifier indicates the identification information of the access point to which the lower communication terminal can connect. For example, the identification information of the access point with a low load detected in the process of step S106 is set.

Transfer Capacity indicates information about the transmission capacity of the access point's external network as indicated by the New Access Point Identifier. The content of the information is the same as the Transfer Capacity of the Network Structure Announcement Frame of FIG.

The Connection Parameter indicates the parameter for connecting to the access point indicated by the New Access Point Identifier.

On the other hand, the controller determines whether or not the communication device 11 approves the release of the role of the access point. For example, the controller approves when all the communication terminals under the communication device 11 can connect to other access points. On the other hand, for example, the controller does not approve if at least one of the lower communication terminals of the communication device 11 is not connectable to another access point. The controller transmits a response signal including a control frame containing control information indicating approval or disapproval.

The wireless reception processing unit 114 receives a response signal via the antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b, and the antenna control unit 111, extracts a control frame from the response signal, and supplies the control frame to the control information processing unit 115. The control information processing unit 115 supplies the control information included in the control frame to the operation control unit 107. Based on the control information, the operation control unit 107 notifies the role setting unit 106 whether or not the higher-level controller has approved the release of the access point role.

When the controller approves the release of the role of the access point, the role setting unit 106 confirms the existence of the lower communication terminal based on the information from the network management unit 104. For example, the role setting unit 106 determines that the lower communication terminal can be changed to the communication terminal when the lower communication terminal does not exist because the lower communication terminal changes the connection destination to another access point, and the process is performed. The process proceeds to step S108.

In step S108, the communication device 11 starts the operation of the communication terminal. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 notifies the network management unit 104 that the communication terminal has been changed, and also notifies the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101. The operation control unit 23 and the operation control unit 107 start operation control as a communication terminal.

After that, although detailed description will be omitted, the communication device 11 disconnects from the controller according to a predetermined communication protocol under the control of the operation control unit 107 and the like, and the load detected in the process of step S56. Connect to a low access point as a communication terminal.

After that, the AP role control process ends.

On the other hand, in step S107, if the controller does not approve the release of the access point, or if there is a lower-level communication terminal, the role setting unit 106 determines that the communication terminal cannot be changed, and the process of step S108 is performed. It is skipped and the AP role control process ends.

If it is determined in step S106 that there is no access point with a low load in the surroundings, the processes of steps S107 and S108 are skipped, and the AP role control process ends.

Further, in step S105, for example, the role setting unit 106 determines that data has been transmitted when the transmission / reception of the signal including the data frame from the lower communication terminal is within the latest predetermined time, and determines that the data has been transmitted, and in step S106. The process of step S108 is skipped, and the AP role control process ends.

<Controller role control processing>
Next, the details of the controller role control process in step S7 of FIG. 4 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S151, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not there is access to the external network based on the information from the monitor unit 105. For example, the role setting unit 106 determines that there is no access to the external network when the lower access point connected to the communication device 11 which is the controller does not access the external network for a predetermined time or more. The process proceeds to step S152.

In step S152, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not there is a controller with a low load in the surroundings based on the information from the monitor unit 105. For example, the role setting unit 106 determines that if there is a controller whose load within the latest predetermined time is less than a predetermined lower limit within the communicable range of the communication device 11, there is a controller with a low load in the surroundings. , The process proceeds to step S153. The content of the load and the lower limit value, which are the determination criteria, can be arbitrarily set.

In step S153, as in the process of step S56 of FIG. 6, it is determined whether or not there is an access point with a low load in the surroundings. If it is determined that there is an access point with a low load in the surroundings, the process proceeds to step S154. For example, when the load of the entire internal network is reduced and there are controllers and access points with a low load in the surroundings, the process proceeds to step S154.

In step S154, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the communication terminal can be changed. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 instructs the operation control unit 107 to change to the communication terminal.

The operation control unit 107 causes the control information generation unit 108 to request the communication device 11 to release the role of the controller from the controller with a low load detected in the process of step S152 (hereinafter referred to as an alternative controller). Instruct. The control information generation unit 108 generates a Network Structure Independent Release Frame and supplies it to the wireless transmission processing unit 110. The wireless transmission processing unit 110 transmits a transmission signal including the Network Structure Independent Release Frame to the alternative controller via the antenna control unit 111, the antenna element 112a, and the antenna element 112b.

FIG. 12 shows a configuration example of the Network Structure Independent Release Frame. The Network Structure Independent Release Frame is a control frame transmitted to a surrounding alternative controller in order to request that the controller release the role of the controller and operate as an access point or a communication terminal.

In the Network Structure Independent Release Frame, the Header similar to the Network Structure Connection Request Frame in FIG. 5 is arranged at the head, and the FCS is arranged at the end. The Address of the source controller is set in the Transmit Address of the Header, and the address of the alternative controller of the destination is set in the Receive Address.

A Controller Identifier, a New Controller Identifier, a Transfer Capacity, and a Connection Parameter are arranged between the Header and the FCS.

The Controller Identifier indicates self (controller) identification information.

The New Controller Identifier indicates the identification information of the alternative controller.

Transfer Capacity indicates information about the transmission capacity of the alternate controller's external network. The content of the information is the same as the Transfer Capacity of the Network Structure Announcement Frame of FIG.

Connection Parameter indicates the parameter for connecting to the alternate controller.

On the other hand, the alternative controller determines whether or not to approve the release of the controller of the communication device 11. For example, the alternative controller approves the release of the controller of the communication device 11 when the access point lower than the communication device 11 can connect to the alternative controller. On the other hand, the alternative controller does not approve the release of the controller of the communication device 11 when the access point lower than the communication device 11 cannot connect to the alternative controller. The alternate controller sends a response signal containing a control frame containing control information indicating approval or disapproval.

The wireless reception processing unit 114 receives a response signal via the antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b, and the antenna control unit 111, extracts a control frame from the response signal, and supplies the control frame to the control information processing unit 115. The control information processing unit 115 supplies the control information included in the control frame to the operation control unit 107. Based on the control information, the operation control unit 107 notifies the role setting unit 106 whether or not it is approved to release the role of the controller from the alternative controller.

When the alternative controller approves the release of the controller role, the role setting unit 106 confirms the existence of the lower access point based on the information from the network management unit 104. For example, the role setting unit 106 determines that the lower access point can be changed to the communication terminal when the lower access point does not exist because the lower access point changes the connection destination to the alternative controller, and the process is step S155. Proceed to.

In step S155, the communication device 11 starts the operation of the communication terminal. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 notifies the network management unit 104 that the communication terminal has been changed, and also notifies the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101. The operation control unit 23 and the operation control unit 107 start operation control as a communication terminal.

Then, although detailed description is omitted, the communication device 11 disconnects from the external network under the control of the operation control unit 107 and the like according to a predetermined communication protocol, and the load detected in the process of step S153. Connect to a low access point as a communication terminal.

After that, the controller role control process ends.

On the other hand, in step S154, the role setting unit 106 determines that if the alternative controller does not approve the release of the controller, or if there is a lower access point, the communication terminal cannot be changed, and the process proceeds to step S158. move on.

If it is determined in step S153 that there is no access point with a low load in the surroundings, the process proceeds to step S158.

Further, if it is determined in step S152 that there is no controller having a low load in the surroundings, the processes of steps S152 to S155 are skipped, and the controller role control process ends.

Further, in step S151, for example, when the role setting unit 106 has accessed the external network from the lower access point within the latest predetermined time, the role setting unit 106 determines that there is access to the external network, and the process is performed. The process proceeds to step S156.

In step S156, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not there is little access to the external network based on the information from the monitor unit 105. For example, if the amount of access to the external network from the lower access point within the latest predetermined time is less than the predetermined lower limit value, the role setting unit 106 determines that the access to the external network is small, and the process is performed. The process proceeds to step S157. The content of the load and the lower limit value, which are the determination criteria, can be arbitrarily set.

In step S157, as in the process of step S152, it is determined whether or not there is a controller having a low load in the surroundings. If it is determined that there is a controller (alternative controller) having a low load in the surroundings, the process proceeds to step S158.

In step S158, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not the access point can be changed. Specifically, as in the process of step S152, the transmission signal including the Network Structure Independent Request Frame is transmitted from the communication device 11 to the alternative controller.

On the other hand, the alternative controller determines whether or not to approve the release of the controller of the communication device 11. For example, the alternative controller approves the release of the controller of the communication device 11 when the communication device 11 and the access point lower than the communication device 11 can be connected to the alternative controller. On the other hand, the alternative controller does not approve the release of the controller of the communication device 11 when at least one of the communication device 11 and the lower access points of the communication device 11 cannot connect to the alternative controller. The alternate controller sends a response signal containing a control frame containing control information indicating approval or disapproval.

The wireless reception processing unit 114 receives a response signal via the antenna element 112a and the antenna element 112b, and the antenna control unit 111, extracts a control frame from the response signal, and supplies the control frame to the control information processing unit 115. The control information processing unit 115 supplies the control information included in the control frame to the operation control unit 107. Based on the control information, the operation control unit 107 notifies the role setting unit 106 whether or not it is approved to release the role of the controller from the alternative controller.

When the alternative controller approves the release of the controller role, the role setting unit 106 confirms the existence of the lower access point based on the information from the network management unit 104. For example, the role setting unit 106 determines that the lower access point can be changed to the access point if the lower access point does not exist because the lower access point changes the connection destination to the alternative controller, and the process is step S159. Proceed to.

In step S159, the communication device 11 starts the operation of the access point. Specifically, the role setting unit 106 notifies the network management unit 104 that the access point has been changed, and also notifies the operation control unit 23 via the interface unit 101. The operation control unit 23 and the operation control unit 107 start operation control as an access point.

Then, although detailed description is omitted, the communication device 11 disconnects from the external network and connects to the alternative controller as an access point under the control of the operation control unit 107 or the like according to a predetermined communication protocol.

After that, the controller role control process ends.

On the other hand, in step S158, the role setting unit 106 determines that the access point cannot be changed if the alternative controller does not approve the cancellation of the role of the controller, or if there is a lower-level access point, and step S159. Processing is skipped and the controller role control processing ends.

If it is determined in step S157 that there is no controller with a low load in the surroundings, the processes of steps S158 and S159 are skipped, and the controller role control process ends.

Further, in step S156, for example, when the amount of access to the external network from the lower access point within the latest predetermined time is equal to or greater than the predetermined lower limit value, the role setting unit 106 has less access to the external network. It is determined that there is no such thing, the processing of steps S157 to S159 is skipped, and the controller role control processing ends.

<User setting role control processing>
Next, the user setting role control process in step S8 of FIG. 4 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step S201, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not a change to the communication terminal has been instructed.

14 to 16 show an example of an operation screen displayed on the touch panel display 311 constituting the information input module 22 and the information output module 24 when the communication device 11 is configured by the smartphone 301. FIG. 14 shows an example when the smartphone 301 is operating as a communication terminal. FIG. 15 shows an example when the smartphone 301 is operating as an access point. FIG. 16 shows an example when the smartphone 301 is operating as a controller.

The touch panel display 311 of FIG. 14 displays network information 321 and buttons 322 to 324.

The network information 321 shows the configuration of the self-network to which the smartphone 301 belongs when the smartphone 301 is operating as a communication terminal. Specifically, the hierarchical structure of the self-network is schematically shown as topology information of a controller, an access point, and a communication terminal. The location of the smartphone 301 in the self-network is indicated by a gray circle.

The button 322 indicates that the smartphone 301 can be operated as a controller. Then, when operating the smartphone 301 as a controller, the button 322 is pressed.

Button 323 indicates that the smartphone 301 can be operated as an access point. Then, when operating the smartphone 301 as an access point, the button 323 is pressed.

The button 324 indicates that the smartphone 301 is operating as a communication terminal.

The touch panel display 311 of FIG. 15 displays network information 331 and buttons 332 to 334.

The network information 331 shows the configuration of the self-network to which the smartphone 301 belongs when the smartphone 301 is operating as an access point. Specifically, the hierarchical structure of the self-network is schematically shown as topology information of a controller, an access point, and a communication terminal. The location of the smartphone 301 in the self-network is indicated by a gray circle.

The button 332 indicates that the smartphone 301 can be operated as a controller. Then, when operating the smartphone 301 as a controller, the button 332 is pressed.

Button 333 indicates that the smartphone 301 is operating as an access point.

The button 334 indicates that the smartphone 301 can be operated as a communication terminal. Then, when operating the smartphone 301 as a communication terminal, the button 334 is pressed.

The touch panel display 311 of FIG. 16 displays network information 341 and buttons 342 to 344.

The network information 341 shows the configuration of the self-network and the peripheral network to which the smartphone 301 belongs when the smartphone 301 is operating as a controller. Specifically, the hierarchical structure of the self-network and the peripheral network is schematically shown as the topology information of the controller, the access point, and the communication terminal. The location of the smartphone 301 in its own network is indicated by a gray triangle.

The button 332 indicates that the smartphone 301 is operating as a controller.

The button 343 indicates that the smartphone 301 can be operated as an access point. Then, when operating the smartphone 301 as an access point, the button 343 is pressed.

The button 344 indicates that the smartphone 301 can be operated as a communication terminal. Then, when operating the smartphone 301 as a communication terminal, the button 344 is pressed.

In addition, for example, the cost for connecting the external network, the remaining capacity that can be used for connecting the external network, and the like may be displayed as a judgment material for the user.

For example, when the user wants to change the communication device 11 to a communication terminal, he / she presses the button 334 on the operation screen of FIG. 15 or the button 344 of the operation screen of FIG.

On the other hand, the information input module 22 supplies the input data corresponding to the user's instruction to the role setting unit 106 via the operation control unit 23 and the interface unit 101. Then, the role setting unit 106 determines that the change to the communication terminal has been instructed, and the process proceeds to step S202.

In step S202, it is determined whether or not the communication terminal can be changed, as in the process of step S107 of FIG. 9 or step S154 of FIG. If it is determined that the communication terminal can be changed, the process proceeds to step S203.

In step S203, the operation of the communication terminal is started in the same manner as in the process of step S108 of FIG. 9 or step S155 of FIG.

After that, the user setting role control process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S202 that the communication terminal cannot be changed, the process of step S203 is skipped and the user setting role control process ends.

If it is determined in step S201 that the change to the communication terminal has not been instructed, the process proceeds to step S204.

In step S204, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not a change to the access point has been instructed.

For example, when the user wants to change the communication device 11 to an access point, he / she presses the button 323 on the operation screen of FIG. 14 or the button 343 of the operation screen of FIG.

On the other hand, the information input module 22 supplies the input data corresponding to the user's instruction to the role setting unit 106 via the operation control unit 23 and the interface unit 101. Then, the role setting unit 106 determines that the change to the access point has been instructed, and the process proceeds to step S205.

In step S205, it is determined whether or not the access point can be changed, as in the process of step S57 of FIG. 6 or step S158 of FIG. If it is determined that the access point can be changed, the process proceeds to step S206.

In step S206, the operation of the access point is started in the same manner as the process of step S58 of FIG. 6 or step S159 of FIG.

After that, the user setting role control process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S205 that the access point cannot be changed, the process of step S206 is skipped and the user setting role control process ends.

If it is determined in step S204 that the change to the access point has not been instructed, the process proceeds to step S207.

In step S207, the role setting unit 106 determines whether or not a change to the controller has been instructed.

For example, when the user wants to change the communication device 11 to a controller, he / she presses the button 322 on the operation screen of FIG. 14 or the button 332 of the operation screen of FIG.

On the other hand, the information input module 22 supplies the input data corresponding to the user's instruction to the role setting unit 106 via the operation control unit 23 and the interface unit 101. Then, the role setting unit 106 determines that the change to the controller has been instructed, and the process proceeds to step S208.

In step S208, it is determined whether or not the controller can be changed, as in the process of step S53 of FIG. 6 or step S103 of FIG. If it is determined that the controller can be changed, the process proceeds to step S209.

In step S209, the operation of the controller is started in the same manner as the process of step S54 of FIG. 6 or step S104 of FIG.

After that, the user setting role control process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S208 that the controller cannot be changed, the process of step S209 is skipped and the user setting role control process ends.

If it is determined in step S207 that the change to the controller has not been instructed, the processes of steps S208 and S209 are skipped, and the user setting role control process ends.

As described above, the communication device 11 can be operated in an appropriate role in an appropriate hierarchy based on the status of the internal network and the status of access between the internal network and the external network. As a result, the flexibility of the internal network is increased. For example, the configuration of the internal network can be flexibly changed according to the situation, and the internal network can be operated efficiently. Further, for example, it is possible to improve access to the external network, improve the communication speed, and reduce the communication cost.

FIG. 17 shows a state transition diagram corresponding to the above-mentioned communication control process.

For example, when the communication device 11 is operating as a communication terminal and the load of the higher-level access point increases, the communication device 11 changes its role to the access point. As a result, the load on the access point is distributed, so that, for example, the communication speed in the internal network and the access from the internal network to the external network are improved. Further, since the communication device 11 accesses the external network without going through the access point, the access to the external network of the communication device 11 is also good.

Further, when the communication device 11 is operating as a communication terminal or an access point and the load of the upper controller increases, the communication device 11 changes its role to the controller. As a result, the load on the controller is distributed, so that, for example, the communication speed in the internal network and the access from the internal network to the external network are improved. Further, since the communication device 11 accesses the external network without going through the controller and the access point, the access to the external network of the communication device 11 is also good.

Further, the communication device 11 changes its role to a controller when an access failure to an external network occurs when the communication device 11 is operating as a communication terminal or an access point. This eliminates, for example, poor access from the internal network to the external network.

In this way, as the load on the communication network increases, the role of the communication device 11 is set to the role of the layer higher than the present. That is, the hierarchy of the communication device 11 goes up.

Further, for example, when the communication device 11 is operating as a controller, the access to the external network is reduced (that is, the load is reduced), and when the load of the surrounding controllers is reduced, the lower access point becomes a lower access point. If not (if the access point is not connected), change the role to the access point. Further, when the communication device 11 is operating as a controller, there is no access to the external network, and when the load of the entire network is reduced, there is no lower access point (if the access point is not connected). , Change the role to communication terminal. Further, when the communication device 11 is operating as an access point, there is no data transmission for a long time, and when the load of surrounding access points is reduced, if there is no lower communication terminal (the communication terminal must be connected). B), change the role to a communication terminal.

In this way, as the load on the communication network decreases, the role of the communication device 11 is set to the role of the lower layer than the present. That is, the hierarchy of the communication device 11 is lowered.

Here, as the hierarchy becomes higher, the number of lower communication terminals and access points increases, and the transmission amount of the communication device 11, the calculation amount related to routing and the like, and the power consumption increase. On the other hand, the communication device 11 can reduce the transmission amount, the calculation amount, and the power consumption by lowering the operating hierarchy in accordance with the access to the external network, the reduction of the load of the internal network, and the like. .. Thereby, for example, the communication cost and the communication capacity of the communication device 11 can be suppressed. Further, for example, a communication device such as a battery-powered smartphone can be operated as a controller by using a public communication line or the like as needed, and the battery life can be extended. ..

<Example of operation sequence of communication device 11>
Here, an example of an operation sequence of the communication device 11 will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 28.

For example, as shown in FIG. 18, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP1 perform information exchange processing. In the information exchange process, for example, information indicating a network connection configuration is exchanged. Further, the access point AP1 and the communication terminal STA1, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP2, and the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2 each perform information exchange processing.

Here, when the power of the communication device 11 is turned on, the communication device 11 performs information exchange processing with the access point AP1 as, for example, the communication terminal STA3.

As a result, the communication network 1 of FIG. 19 is constructed. This communication network 1 is the same as the communication network 1 of FIG.

After that, it is assumed that the load of the access point AP1 increases due to the increase in the transmission amount between the access point AP1 and the communication terminal STA1, and the communication resources of the communication terminal STA1 and the communication terminal STA3 cannot be sufficiently secured.

On the other hand, the communication terminal STA3 performs a determination process of changing the connection destination based on the result of monitoring the transmission amount of the controller CNT1, the access point AP1, and the access point AP2, for example. As a result, the communication terminal STA3 decides to change the connection destination to, for example, the access point AP2 having a small load.

After that, the communication terminal STA3 transmits an association request to the access point AP2. When the access point AP2 accepts the association of the communication terminal STA3, the access point AP2 notifies the controller CNTL1 of the switching of the association destination of the communication terminal STA3.

Then, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP2 perform information exchange processing, and the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA3 perform information exchange processing.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 20, the connection destination of the communication terminal STA3 is changed from the access point AP1 to the access point AP2. As a result, sufficient communication resources of the communication terminal STA1 and the communication terminal STA3 are secured, and for example, access to the external network 2 is improved.

After that, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, the load of the access point AP2 increases due to the increase in the transmission amount between the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2, and the communication terminal STA2 and the communication terminal STA3 can be used. It is assumed that sufficient communication resources cannot be secured.

On the other hand, the communication terminal STA3 performs a role change determination process based on the result of monitoring the transmission amount of the controller CNT1, the access point AP1, and the access point AP2, for example. As a result, the communication terminal STA3 decides to change the role to the access point, for example, because the load of both the access point AP1 and the access point AP2 is high.

Then, the communication terminal STA3 transmits the connection request communication to the controller CNTL1. That is, the communication terminal STA3 transmits a transmission signal including the Network Structure Connection Request Frame of FIG. 8 to the controller CNTL1.

When approving the connection request of the communication terminal STA3, the controller CNTL1 transmits a response signal indicating that the connection request is approved to the communication terminal STA3. Then, the controller CNTL1 and the communication terminal STA3 perform information exchange processing.

After that, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP1, the access point AP1 and the communication terminal STA1, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP2, and the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2 each perform information exchange processing.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 22, the communication device 11 directly connects to the controller CNTL1 as an access point AP3 and starts data transmission with the controller CNTL1. As a result, sufficient communication resources of the communication terminal STA2 and the access point AP3 (former communication terminal STA3) are secured, and for example, access to the external network 2 is improved.

The communication device 11 which is the access point AP3 gives an instruction to the communication terminal STA1 or the communication terminal STA2 according to the load of the access point AP1 or the access point AP2, for example, under the control of the operation control unit 107 or the like. The connection destination may be changed from the access point AP1 or the access point AP2 to the communication device 11 (controller CNTL2).

After that, for example, as shown in FIG. 23, the load of the controller CNT increases due to the further increase in the transmission amount between the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2, and the communication terminal STA1, the communication terminal STA2, and the communication terminal STA2, and It is assumed that the communication resources of the access point AP3 cannot be sufficiently secured.

On the other hand, the access point AP3 performs a role change determination process based on the result of monitoring the transmission amount of the controller CNT1, the access point AP1, and the access point AP2, for example. As a result, the access point AP3 decides to change the role to the controller, for example, because the load of the controller CNTL1 is very high.

Then, the access point AP3 transmits an independent request notification to the controller CNTL1. That is, the access point AP3 transmits a transmission signal including the Network Structure Independent Request Frame of FIG. 7 to the controller CNTL1.

When the controller CNTL1 approves the independent request of the access point AP3, the controller CNT sends a response signal indicating that the independent request is approved to the access point AP3. Then, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP3 perform information exchange processing.

After that, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP1, the access point AP1 and the communication terminal STA1, the access point AP3 and the access point AP2, and the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2 each perform information exchange processing.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 24, the communication device 11 is directly connected to the external network 2 as the controller CNTL2. Further, the access point AP2 is connected to the controller CNTL2, and the communication terminal STA2 is connected to the controller CNTL2 via the access point AP2.

The communication device 11 which is the controller CNTL2 gives an instruction to the access point AP2 under the control of the operation control unit 107 or the like, and changes the connection destination from the controller CNTL1 to the communication device 11 (controller CNTL2). You may.

As a result, the internal network is divided into a communication network 1A and a communication network 1B. The communication network 1A is composed of a controller CNT1, an access point AP1, and a communication terminal STA1. The communication network 1B is composed of a controller CNT2, an access point AP2, and a communication terminal STA2. As a result, the load of the controller CNTL1 is distributed to the controller CNTL2, and the communication resources of the communication terminal STA1, the communication terminal STA2, and the controller CNTL2 (former access point AP3) are sufficiently secured, for example, good access to the external network. become.

After that, for example, as shown in FIG. 25, it is assumed that the load of the controller CNTL2 is reduced by reducing the transmission amount between the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2.

On the other hand, the controller CNTL2 performs a role change determination process based on the result of monitoring the transmission amounts of the controller CNTL1, the access point AP1, and the access point AP2, for example. As a result, the controller CNTL2 decides to change the role to the access point, for example, because the load of the controller CNTL1 is not so high.

Then, the controller CNTL2 transmits an independence release request to the controller CNTL1. That is, the controller CNTL2 transmits a transmission signal including the Network Structure Independent Release Frame of FIG. 12 to the controller CNTL1.

When approving the independence release of the controller CNTL2, the controller CNTL1 transmits a response signal indicating that the independence release is approved to the controller CNTL2. Then, the controller CNTL1 and the controller CNTL2 perform information exchange processing.

After that, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP1, the access point AP1 and the communication terminal STA1, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP2, and the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2 each perform information exchange processing.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 26, the communication device 11 connects to the controller CNTL1 as an access point AP3. As a result, the load and power consumption of the access point AP3 (former controller CNTL2) are reduced.

After that, for example, as shown in FIG. 27, it is assumed that the load of the access point AP2 is reduced by further reducing the transmission amount between the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2. It is also assumed that the load on the access point AP3 is also reduced.

On the other hand, the access point AP3 performs a role change determination process based on the result of monitoring the transmission amount of the controller CNT1, the access point AP1, and the access point AP2, for example. As a result, the access point AP3 decides to change to the access point because the load of the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP2 is not so high, for example.

Then, the access point AP3 transmits an operation release request to the controller CNTL1. That is, the controller CNTL2 transmits a transmission signal including the Network Structure Connection Release Frame of FIG. 10 to the controller CNTL1.

When approving the operation cancellation of the access point AP3, the controller CNTL1 transmits a response signal indicating that the operation cancellation is approved to the access point AP3.

After that, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP1, the access point AP1 and the communication terminal STA1, the controller CNTL1 and the access point AP2, the access point AP3 and the access point AP2, and the access point AP2 and the communication terminal STA2 each perform information exchange processing.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 28, the communication device 11 connects to the access point AP2 as the communication terminal STA3. As a result, the load and power consumption of the communication terminal STA3 (former access point AP3) are reduced.

<< 2. Modification example >>
Hereinafter, a modified example of the above-described embodiment of the present technology will be described.

In the above description, an example is shown in which the communication device 11 changes its role based on the result of monitoring the communication status. For example, a controller or an access point around the communication device 11 monitors the communication status. The role of the communication device 11 may be changed based on the result.

For example, the upper controller of the communication device 11 may instruct the lower access point or the communication device 11 which is a communication terminal to change the role of the controller when the load of the controller is high. For example, the upper controller of the communication device 11 may instruct the communication device 11, which is a lower communication terminal, to change the role of the access point when the load of the lower access point is high. For example, when the upper access point of the communication device 11 has a high load on the access point, the communication device 11 which is a lower communication terminal may be instructed to change the role of the access point.

Further, the condition for changing the role of the communication device 11 described above is an example thereof, and can be changed.

Further, the configuration example of the communication device 11 is an example thereof, and can be changed. For example, it is possible to change the division of functions of the operation control unit 23 and the wireless communication module 25. For example, a part of the functions of the wireless communication module 25 (for example, the monitor unit 105, the role setting unit 106, or the operation control unit 107) may be provided in the operation control unit 23. Further, for example, a part of the function of the operation control unit 23 may be provided in the wireless communication module 25.

Further, the wireless communication method of the wireless communication module 25 is not particularly limited. For example, it is possible to apply wireless communication or the like conforming to the standard of IEEE 802.11.

Further, for example, the communication terminal may be connected to the controller via a plurality of access points.

<< 3. Others >>
<Computer configuration example>
The series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or software. When a series of processes is executed by software, the programs constituting the software are installed on the computer. Here, the computer includes a computer embedded in dedicated hardware and, for example, a general-purpose personal computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs.

FIG. 29 is a block diagram showing an example of hardware configuration of a computer that executes the above-mentioned series of processes programmatically.

In the computer 1000, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1001, the ROM (Read Only Memory) 1002, and the RAM (Random Access Memory) 1003 are connected to each other by the bus 1004.

An input / output interface 1005 is further connected to the bus 1004. An input unit 1006, an output unit 1007, a recording unit 1008, a communication unit 1009, and a drive 1010 are connected to the input / output interface 1005.

The input unit 1006 includes an input switch, a button, a microphone, an image pickup element, and the like. The output unit 1007 includes a display, a speaker, and the like. The recording unit 1008 includes a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, and the like. The communication unit 1009 includes a network interface and the like. The drive 1010 drives a removable medium 1011 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory.

In the computer 1000 configured as described above, the CPU 1001 loads the program recorded in the recording unit 1008 into the RAM 1003 via the input / output interface 1005 and the bus 1004 and executes the program. A series of processes are performed.

The program executed by the computer 1000 (CPU1001) can be recorded and provided on the removable media 1011 as a package media or the like, for example. The program can also be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting.

In the computer 1000, the program can be installed in the recording unit 1008 via the input / output interface 1005 by mounting the removable media 1011 in the drive 1010. Further, the program can be received by the communication unit 1009 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the recording unit 1008. In addition, the program can be pre-installed in the ROM 1002 or the recording unit 1008.

The program executed by the computer may be a program in which processing is performed in chronological order according to the order described in the present specification, in parallel, or at a necessary timing such as when a call is made. It may be a program in which processing is performed.

Further, in the present specification, the system means a set of a plurality of components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), and it does not matter whether or not all the components are in the same housing. Therefore, a plurality of devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a device in which a plurality of modules are housed in one housing are both systems. ..

Further, the embodiment of the present technology is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various changes can be made without departing from the gist of the present technology.

For example, the present technology can be configured as cloud computing in which one function is shared by a plurality of devices via a network and jointly processed.

Further, each step described in the above-mentioned flowchart may be executed by one device or may be shared and executed by a plurality of devices.

Further, when a plurality of processes are included in one step, the plurality of processes included in the one step can be executed by one device or shared by a plurality of devices.

<Example of configuration combination>
The present technology can also have the following configurations.

(1)
A monitor unit that monitors the status of a communication network with a hierarchical structure,
A role setting unit that sets roles in the hierarchical structure based on the status of the communication network,
A communication device including an operation control unit that controls the execution of the operation of the changed role.
(2)
The role setting unit sets the role from among a communication terminal, a controller connected to an external network that is a communication network outside the communication network, and an access point that relays between the controller and the communication terminal. The communication device according to (1) above.
(3)
The communication device according to (2) above, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to an access point based on the load of an access point higher than the communication device when the role is a communication terminal.
(4)
The communication according to (2) or (3) above, the role setting unit changes the role to a controller based on the load of a controller above the communication device when the role is a communication terminal or an access point. Device.
(5)
The communication device according to (4), wherein the operation control unit changes the role of the communication terminal to a controller when the communication terminal can be connected to the external network.
(6)
The communication according to (4) or (5) above, wherein the operation control unit connects at least a part of the lower access points of the higher controller to the communication device when the role is changed to the controller. Device.
(7)
The communication device according to any one of (2) to (6) above, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal based on the load of the communication device when the role is an access point.
(8)
When the role setting unit does not transmit data for a predetermined time or longer, the role setting unit is used.
The communication device according to (7) above, which changes the role to a communication terminal.
(9)
When there is a low-load access point around the communication device, the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal.
The communication device according to (7) or (8), wherein the operation control unit connects the communication device to the access point having a low load.
(10)
The role setting unit is described in any one of (2) to (9) above, in which when the role is a controller, the role is changed to an access point or a communication terminal based on the access status with the external network. Communication device.
(11)
The communication device according to (10), wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal when there is no access to the external network for a predetermined time or longer.
(12)
If there is a controller with a low load around the communication device, the role setting unit changes the role to an access point.
The communication device according to (10) or (11), wherein the operation control unit connects the communication device to the controller having a low load.
(13)
When there is a controller with a low load and an access point with a low load around the communication device, the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal.
The communication device according to any one of (10) to (12), wherein the operation control unit connects the communication device to the access point having a low load.
(14)
The role setting unit is described in any one of (2) to (13) above, in which the role is changed to a controller when the role is a communication terminal or an access point and an access failure to the external network occurs. Communication device.
(15)
The communication device according to any one of (1) to (14) above, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a role in a higher hierarchy as the load on the communication network increases.
(16)
The communication device according to any one of (1) to (15) above, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a role in a lower hierarchy as the load on the communication network decreases.
(17)
The communication device according to any one of (1) to (16), wherein the role setting unit further changes the role by user operation.
(18)
The communication device according to any one of (1) to (17) above, wherein the monitor unit monitors at least one of the load of each device constituting the communication network and the communication status between the devices.
(19)
The communication device according to any one of (1) to (18), wherein the monitor unit monitors an access status from the communication network to an external communication network.
(20)
The communication device
Monitor the status of communication networks with a hierarchical structure and
Based on the situation of the communication network, the role in the hierarchical structure is set.
A communication control method that controls the execution of the modified operation of the role.

It should be noted that the effects described in the present specification are merely examples and are not limited, and other effects may be used.

1 Communication network, 2 External network, 11 Communication device, 21 External network connection module, 23 Operation control unit, 25 Wireless communication module, 104 Network management unit, 105 Monitor unit, 106 Role setting unit, 107 Operation control unit, 152 Control unit

Claims (20)

A monitor unit that monitors the status of a communication network with a hierarchical structure,
A role setting unit that sets roles in the hierarchical structure based on the status of the communication network,
A communication device including an operation control unit that controls the execution of the operation of the changed role. The role setting unit sets the role from among a communication terminal, a controller connected to an external network that is a communication network outside the communication network, and an access point that relays between the controller and the communication terminal. The communication device according to claim 1. The communication device according to claim 2, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to an access point based on the load of an access point higher than the communication device when the role is a communication terminal. The communication device according to claim 2, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a controller based on the load of a controller above the communication device when the role is a communication terminal or an access point. The communication device according to claim 4, wherein the operation control unit changes the role of the communication terminal to a controller when the communication terminal can be connected to the external network. The communication device according to claim 4, wherein the operation control unit connects at least a part of the lower access points of the upper controller to the communication device when the role is changed to the controller. The communication device according to claim 2, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal based on the load of the communication device when the role is an access point. When the role setting unit does not transmit data for a predetermined time or longer, the role setting unit is used.
The communication device according to claim 7, wherein the role is changed to a communication terminal. When there is a low-load access point around the communication device, the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal.
The communication device according to claim 7, wherein the operation control unit connects the communication device to the access point having a low load. The communication device according to claim 2, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to an access point or a communication terminal based on an access status with the external network when the role is a controller. The communication device according to claim 10, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal when there is no access to the external network for a predetermined time or longer. If there is a controller with a low load around the communication device, the role setting unit changes the role to an access point.
The communication device according to claim 10, wherein the operation control unit connects the communication device to the controller having a low load. When there is a controller with a low load and an access point with a low load around the communication device, the role setting unit changes the role to a communication terminal.
The communication device according to claim 10, wherein the operation control unit connects the communication device to the access point having a low load. The communication device according to claim 2, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a controller when the role is a communication terminal or an access point and an access failure to the external network occurs. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a role in a higher hierarchy as the load on the communication network increases. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the role setting unit changes the role to a role in a lower hierarchy as the load on the communication network decreases. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the role setting unit further changes the role by user operation. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the monitor unit monitors at least one of the load of each device constituting the communication network and the communication status between the devices. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the monitor unit monitors an access status from the communication network to an external communication network. The communication device
Monitor the status of communication networks with a hierarchical structure and
Based on the situation of the communication network, the role in the hierarchical structure is set.
A communication control method that controls the execution of the modified operation of the role.

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